Threat Assessment Process
The following outline of potential TTAM activities is intended to provide insight into some of the options that may, among other strategies, be utilized by TTAM when assessing and managing potential threats. It is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all-inclusive or exclusive list, a mandatory procedure, or a “checklist.” TTAM members will assess and manage each situation in accordance with their best judgment on a case-by-case basis and applicable University policies.
Any University department or office that becomes aware of threats or threatening behavior is strongly encouraged to report such a concern to TTAM as soon as this information becomes known.
When information is received by TTAM, the TTAM Manager or designee may, in consultation with others as necessary and appropriate, assess the reported information and determine whether to convene TTAM members and/or initiate a fuller inquiry, as circumstances dictate.
The TTAM Manager or designee will first determine whether there is an imminent threat of harm or another emergency that requires immediate police intervention. If so, the TTAM Manager or designee will notify the Tufts University Police Department or local law enforcement, seek emergency medical assistance, or take other appropriate measures to address the imminent threat or situation.
If there does not appear to be an imminent threat of harm, the Manager or designee will conduct an initial screening to determine whether a full assessment is warranted.
If it's determined that there does not appear to be an emergency or imminent threat of harm, but that a full assessment is warranted given the initial available information, TTAM members will work to gather additional information to determine whether the person or situation of concern may pose a threat of violence.
TTAM may seek information from sources such as faculty, student life staff, coaches, family members, or others who may have relevant knowledge or information. Campus community members are encouraged to cooperate fully with and provide information to the TTAM team.
In general, the person of concern will have an opportunity to provide the team with input regarding the circumstances of the case. TTTAM will, however, consider when or whether such an opportunity will be provided in light of overall safety considerations and the circumstances of a particular situation.
If TTAM determines that the person(s) of concern is/are in need of intervention or connection to resources, a management plan to implement support and monitor outcomes will be developed to reduce the risk of harm. The management plan may include, but is not limited to, the following: family notification; law enforcement intervention; disciplinary review/action; behavioral contract; voluntary referral for mental health evaluation/treatment; continued participation in the Tufts community contingent upon mandated psychological assessment or other medical treatment, and/or coaching; voluntary or involuntary withdrawal from the University; separation from the institution; modification of the environment or other reasonable accommodations to mitigate risk; collaboration with the identified alleged target(s) to decrease vulnerability; engaging with the person of concern to de-escalate the situation; and ongoing monitoring. It’s important to note that a TTAM assessment is not done in order to determine disciplinary action related to conduct or policy violations.
If TTAM determines that the person of concern does not pose a risk for violence, there may be no action taken or the decision to monitor the situation for a period of time may be made with a plan to re-evaluate the case as necessary.
In cases where a person is believed to pose a threat to self only, the matter will be referred to and addressed by the most appropriate resource based on the affiliation of the person to the University. When necessary, TTAM may remain involved to offer additional support.
Cases handled by TTAM will remain open until it appears that a management plan is no longer necessary.
The TTAM team will participate in periodic training and conduct periodic reviews of outcomes of situations where the TTAM team has been involved.